Hong Kong is stepping up its game in the crypto space. In a move to tighten oversight and improve investor safety, the city’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) has rolled out new rules for virtual asset trading platforms and authorised funds involved in staking.
The move is part of the city’s efforts to tighten oversight and create a safer, more structured crypto market.
From clearer rules to new opportunities for investors, the SFC’s latest update could signal a turning point. Here’s what’s changing, and why it matters.
The updated rules highlight key benefits of staking—such as improving blockchain security and helping investors earn yields—all within a regulated environment. These guidelines give licensed crypto platforms more flexibility to offer staking services, supporting the SFC’s “ASPIRe” strategy to grow Hong Kong’s virtual asset industry.
The SFC has set out clear requirements for platforms that offer staking. These include protecting staked assets, avoiding service disruptions, and being transparent about the risks involved. This marks a major step toward making staking safer for investors in Hong Kong.
The SFC also updated its circular for SFC-authorised virtual asset (VA) funds. These funds can now stake assets—but only through licensed platforms or approved institutions. To reduce risk, a cap has been set on how much they can stake. This helps manage liquidity and further protect investors.
SFC CEO Julia Leung said that expanding regulated crypto services is key to growing Hong Kong’s virtual asset market. At the same time, she stressed that protecting investors must remain the top priority through strong regulation and compliance.
The SFC is actively working to position Hong Kong as a global digital asset hub. Its ASPIRe framework—short for Access, Safeguards, Products, Infrastructure, and Relationships—aims to make it easier for platforms to enter the market while strengthening investor protections.
In February 2025, the SFC announced plans to launch new licensing regimes for over-the-counter (OTC) virtual asset trading and custody services. These new rules are aimed at improving market efficiency and boosting investor confidence.
As the crypto world keeps moving fast, Hong Kong clearly wants the rules to keep pace – and stay one step ahead.
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